HomeGames & TechAlton Towers to open virtual reality rollercoaster Galactica

Alton Towers to open virtual reality rollercoaster Galactica

Alton Towers is set to open the world’s first rollercoaster entirely customised for the full virtual reality experience in April 2016.

Galactica will transform riders into astronauts and plunge them into outer space with a G force more powerful than a real rocket launch. The new ride combines the physical exertion and adrenaline rush of Alton Towers Resort’s iconic flying rollercoaster, with the breathtaking emotive experience of travelling through space.

The visuals for the ride have been synchronised to the twists, turns and loops of the rollercoaster to recreate the sensation of hurtling through space. Visitors will ride in a prone position along the 840-metre long (2,760 ft) track, to recreate the feeling of flying.

Each rider wears a specialist VR headset. Through this, an on-board artificial intelligence guides them from the launch pad up into space, flying and looping beyond the stars, banking through wormholes and speeding across undiscovered galaxies, revealing the wonders of the cosmos in stunning clarity.

Speaking of the new attraction, Gill Riley, Marketing Director at Alton Towers Resort said, “Galactica uses ground breaking technology to give riders a breathtaking and completely unique rollercoaster experience. Tim Peake captured the imagination of millions of Brits last year when he set off on his mission to the International Space Station – and now our visitors can become astronauts too.

“There is nowhere else in the world that people can experience the feeling of a flying rollercoaster combined with soaring through the universe. For two minutes, our guests will be transported into space and we believe Galactica showcases the future for theme parks around the world – it’s a complete game changer!”

Galactica will be located in the Forbidden Valley area of the theme park and is set to open in April 2016. Watch a video about the ride below:

Pip Ellwood-Hughes
Pip Ellwood-Hughes
Pip is the owner and Editor of Entertainment Focus, and the Managing Director of PiƱata Media. With over 19 years of journalism experience, Pip has interviewed some of the biggest stars in the entertainment world. He is also a qualified digital marketing expert with over 20 years of experience.

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